Advent Two: Pagans
We become keenly aware of just how differently we think and believe from others when we celebrate any kind of religious holiday— and Christmas certainly falls into that category.
Should our beliefs about the birth of Jesus cause divisions among people? If they do, it may just be that we are misinterpreting the true meaning of Christmas altogether.
Ryan Phipps is the Senior Minister at Church In Bethesda.
Raised in the church, becoming a pastor was the one thing Ryan vowed he would never do. After spending many years away from faith, he found that for all of its flaws, the church can still occupy a unique place of good in the world if it is willing to evolve with reason and empathy.
Ryan has a special place in his heart for those who have been damaged or disillusioned by the church, and longs to lead those within it toward a more just and generous expression of itself.